The 80th Geneva International Motor Show will
be remembered for its display of electric and
hybrid concept cars. Porsche showed a hybrid
prototype, the 918 Spyder concept, claiming a
mileage of 78 miles to the gallon. Volkswagen
outlined plans to become dominant in electric
cars by 2018. Daimler announced a partnership
with Chinese battery and carmaker BYD to cooperate
on a new electric model in China. And
Tata Motors displayed an electric version of its
ultra-low-cost Nano.

Ford is expanding its programme to offer
electric or hybrid vehicles in Europe by
2013. PSA Peugeot Citroen plans to launch the
Peugeot 3008 plug-in diesel hybrid in 2012,
as well as the Citroen DS hybrid as part of its
strategy.

Nissan is banking on electric vehicles with its
Leaf, and also showcased a line of electric models
catering to urban mobility. Lexus introduced
its CT 200h full hybrid hatchback. Even Subaru
and Fuji are now showcasing electric vehicles.

BMW is developing environmentally friendly
cars as a part of its “Project I” initiative. It showcased
its 5 series ActiveHybrid concept. Audi revealed
its A1 e-tron, an electric city car concept,
along with its A8 Hybrid.

Mercedes showcased its F800 style concept,
which can either be turned into a fuel-cell or
plug-in hybrid vehicle. Mercedes has invested in
research and development of fuel cells, and that
is one of the reasons for this parallel approach.

A green Ferrari?

The bright green HY-KERS vettura laboratorio (experimental vehicle) unveiled by Ferrari
is, according to the company, “an example of
how Ferrari is approaching the development of
hybrid technology without losing sight of the
performance traits and driving involvement that
have always exemplified its cars”. Ferrari aims to
be in a position to comply with future CO2 emission
standards, particularly in urban driving.

Ferrari has employed its racing experience
to adapt an advanced, lightweight hybrid drivetrain
to its concept car, while ensuring that vehicle
dynamics are unaffected. Ferrari has also
applied its Formula One technology to the design,
engineering and construction of the highvoltage
electric motor of the HY-KERS, which
weighs about 40 kg and is coupled to the rear
of the dual-clutch 7-speed transmission. When
braking, the electric drive unit acts as a generator,
using the kinetic energy from the negative
torque generated to recharge the batteries.